Brigitte Bardot, who recently died at 91, was one of the 59 people mentioned by name in Billy Joel's 1989 single, "We Didn't Start the Fire," Just three of those people, cited as newsy figures from the first 40 years of Joel's life,

When Bardot abruptly exited the film business at age 39, she was an international sex symbol and one of the most famous faces in the fashion industry. Her retirement, following 1973's "The Edifying and Joyous Story of Colinot,

The French have no problem reconciling sexual allure and noble, patriotic sentiments. That’s why, back in 1969, they selected Brigitte Bardot as the first celebrity face for Marianne, the personification of the French republic.

"Rest in peace Ms. Bardot. She was my inspiration for red wine supernova," Roan wrote on Sunday. The post was later removed and replaced with a follow-up message in which the singer acknowledged she was unaware of the Frenchwoman’s controversial views.

Despite being considered a pop cultural icon and animal rights activist, Bardot’s reputation was marred by multiple controversies.

Brigitte Bardot's last public appearance before her death took place in 2024, when she was photographed in her car in France on Sept. 28 — her 90th birthday. The actress and model's foundation announced her death at age 91 on Sunday,